Grab a hearty breakfast in Orlando before you leave; aim for a popular local spot for good coffee and sandwiches to set you up for the drive. Leave by 8:00am to avoid heavier traffic.
Scenic drive from Orlando to Lovers Key (I‑4 W then I‑75 S) taking roughly 3–4 hours depending on traffic; enjoy glimpses of Florida’s changing landscapes as you head south-west.
Explore the barrier‑island beaches, look for shorebirds, and take an easy riverside walk; the park is a superb first taste of Gulf coast scenery. Park hours are typically 8:00am–sunset; check the park website for current opening times.
Enjoy lunch in nearby Naples — choose a relaxed seafood or café spot downtown to sample local Gulf shrimp or sandwiches and watch the harbour activity.
Afternoon stroll along Naples’ 5th Avenue South and the Naples Pier for shops, galleries and a classic Florida sunset viewpoint; pier area is open daily but check individual shop hours.
Dine at a Naples restaurant serving Italian or fresh seafood; book ahead for a popular evening spot and enjoy sunset dining if possible (typical dinner service 5:00pm–10:00pm).
Book a morning boat or guided kayak eco‑tour from Everglades City to explore mangrove creeks, wildlife and the Gulf coast of the park; tours usually run mid‑morning and last 2–3 hours, so reserve in advance.
Relax by the waterfront or at a marsh viewpoint for evening birdlife and possibly alligator sightings in nearby brackish creeks; shorelines are best at dusk.
Take US‑41 east, a classic and scenic route across the Everglades. Plan stops at Big Cypress or Shark Valley for short walks or tram tours; travel time to Miami ~3 hours with stops.
Short visit to Shark Valley for wildlife viewing and the observation tower; centre hours are typically 8:00am–5:00pm and tram/bike tours run during the day — allow an hour for a walk or photo stop.
Stop at Robert Is Here in Homestead for fresh fruit shakes and a colourful local experience (approx 9:00am–5:00pm); otherwise pick a café en route to Miami.
Arrive in Miami South Beach for an afternoon walk through South Pointe Park and a stroll along Ocean Drive to see art deco architecture and lively beachfront scene; public beach access is available though lifeguard hours vary (typically 9:00am–5:30pm).
Enjoy dinner on Las Olas Boulevard where there are numerous restaurants and bars; reservations are recommended for popular spots (dinner service usually 5:00pm–10:00pm+).
Morning on Fort Lauderdale Beach — walk the wide sands, swim if you like, or rent a bike and ride the beachfront promenade; lifeguard hours typically mid‑morning to late afternoon.
Check into accommodation in Palm Beach/West Palm Beach then explore Clematis Street or Worth Avenue for shops and galleries; evening hours vary by business.
Drive north to Cocoa Beach (~1h45–2h from Palm Beach) for a lively surf town close to Orlando, or choose quieter Vero Beach (~1h30–2h south depending on route) if you prefer a calmer atmosphere.
Lunch on Cocoa Beach Pier with ocean views and casual seafood options; the pier area is open and popular in the afternoon (pier businesses commonly open midday).
In Cocoa Beach visit the Pier, Ron Jon Surf Shop (open long hours, often 24/7) or try a surf lesson; in Vero Beach you can visit lovely public beaches or the Vero Beach Museum of Art (check opening times).
Enjoy an oceanfront dinner: Cocoa Beach has casual seafood and beachside bars, while Vero offers upscale coastal dining; typical dinner hours 5:00pm–10:00pm.
Drive from Cocoa Beach to Orlando Airport (approx 1h–1h15m) or from Vero Beach (approx 1h45–2h); allow extra time for traffic and rental car return or check‑in.
Arrive at Orlando International Airport with time to return your rental car, check in and pass security; recommended to arrive 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights.
Complete your journey home or onwards. If you have a later flight, consider a short transfer into Orlando for lunch or last‑minute shopping at the airport.